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Simlipal National Park, Odisha | Wildlife Tours

Overview of Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park is located in the northern part of the Eastern Ghats, a mountain range that stretches along the east coast of India. The park is known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, which is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and many other species of animals.

History of Simlipal National Park

The park was established in 1979 as a tiger reserve and was later declared a national park in 1980. The area was previously used as a hunting ground by the Maharajas of Mayurbhanj.

Geography and Climate

Simlipal National Park is located at an altitude of 559.31 meters to 1690.49 meters above sea level. The park has a tropical climate, with the summer months being hot and humid, and the winter months being cool and dry. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, bringing in heavy rainfall.

Flora and Fauna

Simlipal National Park is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. The park has more than 1076 species of plants, including rare and endangered species such as Vanda tessellata, Dendrobium nobile, and Cymbidium aloifolium. The park is also home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian bison, and sambar deer.

Wildlife Tours in Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park is a popular destination for wildlife tours, with visitors coming from all over the world to witness the beauty and diversity of the park's flora and fauna. Here are some of the top things to do in Simlipal National Park:

Jeep Safari

Jeep safaris are one of the best ways to explore the park's wildlife. Visitors can hire a jeep and a guide who will take them on a tour of the park. Jeep safaris are available throughout the year, except during the monsoon season.

Trekking

Simlipal National Park is also a great destination for trekking enthusiasts. There are several trekking trails within the park, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trekking trail is the Barehipani and Joranda Waterfall Trek, which takes visitors to the park's two highest waterfalls.

Bird Watching

Simlipal National Park is home to over 231 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot several rare and endangered bird species, including the grey hornbill, Indian pied hornbill, and the Indian trogon.

Nature Walks

Nature walks are another great way to explore the park's beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park's trails and witness the stunning flora and fauna up close.

Best Time to Visit Simlipal National Park

The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is between November and June. The park is closed during the monsoon season, from June to September, due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides.

Accommodation Options

There are several accommodation options available for visitors to Simlipal National Park. The park has several forest rest houses and cottages, which can be booked through the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC) website. Visitors can also stay in nearby towns such as Baripada, which has several budget and mid-range hotels.

Safety Tips

While visiting Simlipal National Park, it is important to follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Always follow the park rules and regulations
• Do not feed or disturb the animals
• Keep a safe distance from the animals
• Do not litter in the park
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear
• Carry sufficient water and food

How to travel by road to Simlipal National Park and the nearest bus stand

Simlipal National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, and trekking trails, it is a must-visit destination in Odisha. So, plan your trip to Simlipal National Park today and experience the beauty of nature like never before.

Simlipal National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in the northern part of Odisha. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds. The park is spread over an area of 2750 square kilometers and has been declared as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Location of Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is situated in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It is located at a distance of around 250 kilometers from the state capital, Bhubaneswar. The park is nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats and is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and hills.

Best Time to Visit Simlipal National Park
The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is between November and June. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the park is open for visitors. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to October, should be avoided as the park remains closed during this period due to heavy rainfall.

How to Reach Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park can be reached by air, rail, and road.

By Air
The nearest airport to Simlipal National Park is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The distance between the airport and the park is around 270 kilometers.

By Rail
The nearest railway station to Simlipal National Park is the Balasore railway station, which is located at a distance of around 100 kilometers from the park. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

By Road
Simlipal National Park is well-connected by road to various cities in Odisha. The park is located around 250 kilometers from Bhubaneswar and can be reached by taking the NH16 highway. The journey takes around 7-8 hours.

Nearest Bus Stand to Simlipal National Park
The nearest bus stand to Simlipal National Park is the Jashipur bus stand, which is located at a distance of around 20 kilometers from the park. From the bus stand, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

Hiring a Taxi to Reach Simlipal National Park
If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free mode of transportation, you can hire a taxi to reach Simlipal National Park.Tips for Road Travel to Simlipal National Park
If you are traveling to Simlipal National Park by road, here are a few tips that can come in handy:

Carry enough cash: While traveling by road to Simlipal National Park, make sure you carry enough cash as there are no ATMs or banks near the park.

Keep a map handy: It is advisable to keep a map or GPS device with you as the roads leading to the park can be confusing and there are chances of getting lost.

Check weather conditions: Before embarking on your journey, make sure you check the weather conditions as the roads leading to the park can get slippery during the monsoon season.

Carry water and snacks: It is advisable to carry enough water and snacks as there are limited food and water options near the park.

Drive cautiously: The roads leading to Simlipal National Park are hilly and can be dangerous, especially during the monsoon season. It is advisable to drive cautiously and follow traffic rules.

What to Expect at Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds. The park is also home to several waterfalls and offers stunning views of the Eastern Ghats.

Accommodation Options at Simlipal National Park
There are several accommodation options available near Simlipal National Park, including forest rest houses, cottages, and guesthouses. These accommodations are managed by the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC) and can be booked online or through the OFDC office in Bhubaneswar.

How to travel by train to Simlipal National Park and the nearest railway station

Simlipal National Park is situated in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It covers an area of around 2,750 square kilometers and is home to over 1076 species of plants, 42 species of mammals, and 231 species of birds. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Some of the popular attractions inside the park include the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls, the Simlipal peak, and the Gurguria and Chahala watchtowers.

Nearest Railway Station to Simlipal National Park
The nearest railway station to Simlipal National Park is Baripada Railway Station, which is located at a distance of around 100 kilometers from the park. The station is well-connected to major cities in India, including Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai, through regular train services. Once you reach Baripada Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Simlipal National Park.

How to Reach Simlipal National Park by Train
The easiest and most comfortable way to reach Simlipal National Park by train is to take a train to Baripada Railway Station and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The journey from Baripada to Simlipal National Park takes around three hours by road. Several private taxis and buses are available outside the railway station that can take you directly to the park. Alternatively, you can book a taxi in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Best Trains to Take to Simlipal National Park
There are several trains that run between major cities in India and Baripada Railway Station. Some of the popular trains that you can take to reach Baripada Railway Station include:

Howrah-Mumbai Mail
Kalinga Utkal Express
Bhubaneswar-Dhanbad Express
Puri-Howrah Shatabdi Express
Visakhapatnam-Dibrugarh Express
All these trains provide comfortable and affordable travel options and run on a regular basis.

Tips for Traveling by Train to Simlipal National Park
Here are some tips to keep in mind when traveling by train to Simlipal National Park:

Book your train tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Pack light and carry only the essentials, as train compartments can be cramped.
Carry enough cash, as there may not be ATMs or card payment facilities available at the park.
Be aware of the train timings and schedule, as trains in India can be subject to delays.
Carry some snacks and water with you, as food and beverages may not be easily available on the train.
Alternative Modes of Transportation to Simlipal National Park

How to travel by air to Simlipal National Park and the nearest airport

Simlipal National Park is located in the northern part of the Eastern Ghats, which is a range of mountains along the eastern coast of India. It covers an area of 2,750 square kilometers and is home to over 1000 species of plants, 55 species of mammals, and 304 species of birds. The park is also known for its waterfalls, such as Joranda and Barehipani, which attract many visitors.

Nearest Airport to Simlipal National Park
The nearest airport to Simlipal National Park is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, with daily flights from major airlines such as Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Simlipal National Park. The distance from Biju Patnaik International Airport to Simlipal National Park is approximately 270 kilometers, which takes around 7-8 hours to cover by road.

Best Time to Visit Simlipal National Park
The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is from November to June, as the park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to October). During this time, the park receives heavy rainfall, and the roads become inaccessible. The winter season (November to February) is also a good time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the animals are more visible due to the low foliage.

Air Travel Tips to Simlipal National Park
Here are some essential air travel tips to keep in mind while planning your trip to Simlipal National Park:

Book Your Flights in Advance
To ensure you get the best prices, it is advisable to book your flights to Bhubaneswar in advance, preferably 2-3 months before your travel dates. This will also give you more options in terms of airlines and flight timings.

Choose the Right Time to Fly
The best time to fly to Bhubaneswar is during the early morning or late evening, as the weather is pleasant, and the flights are less crowded. This will also help you avoid the rush hour traffic in the city.

Pack Light and Smart
When traveling by air, it is essential to pack light and smart, especially if you are planning to visit Simlipal National Park. Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and essential items such as insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
 

FAQs

Q.1 What is the entry fee for Simlipal National Park?

The entry fee for Simlipal National Park varies based on the nationality of the visitor. Indian visitors are charged INR 50 per person, while foreign visitors are charged INR 500 per person.

Q.2 Is it safe to visit Simlipal National Park?

Yes, it is safe to visit Simlipal National Park, as long as visitors follow the park rules and regulations and take necessary safety precautions.

Q.3 What is the best time to visit Simlipal National Park?

The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is between November and June.

Q.4 Can visitors book accommodation in Simlipal National Park?

Yes, visitors can book accommodation in Simlipal National Park through the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC) website.

Q.5 What are the major attractions in Simlipal National Park?

The major attractions in Simlipal National Park are the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, Barehipani and Joranda Waterfalls, and several trekking trails.